David Shaw of Shaw Builders in Mount Maunganui was elated when his name was read out as the winner of the Resene Sustainable Home Award at the Registered Master Builders 2013 House of the Year.
Mr Shaw says this is one of the more unique homes he has worked on throughout his career.
“The immaculate finishing and the heating system made this home really special. Heat is generated through a 15,000 litre underground hot water storage reservoir that maintains around 24 degrees in the home at all times,” he says.
“Solar heating is becoming more common, but using a hot water tank of this size is very rare. On top of this, we were working with a difficult site — we had to get tanks up a kilometre long winding driveway, and we had to use three trams to get to the top of the site.”
Mr Shaw says his company has been at the House of the Year awards consistently over the past few years, “but the challenges involved with this build meant it was a particularly satisfying win”.
The judges said Shaw Builders’ winning home boasts numerous energy-efficient features.
“A sophisticated solar hot water and home heating system incorporates an underground hot water storage reservoir that then powers under-floor heating, and provides hot water throughout the home, including the heated towel rails,” they said.
“The incorporation of thermal break joinery in addition to thorough insulation results in a warm and inviting home. Clever use of recycled materials throughout, as well as LED lighting, ensures this house is not only sustainable but also stylish in its design.”
Mr Shaw says the recognition he receives from House of the Year is phenomenal.
“Year after year the awards contribute to the success of our business. I don’t think we would have the business we have today if we didn’t have Master Builders or recognition from the House of the Year competition,” he says.
“In my opinion, if we didn’t have these awards under our belt people wouldn’t know who we are or know of our high quality workmanship.
“People won’t get just anyone to build their home. They want the builders who are recognised in the industry as being the best. Master Builders and the competition have helped our business ten-fold — it’s been a great ride!”
The Awards are made possible through the support of PlaceMakers, Master Build Services, James Hardie, GIB, Nulook, Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, Future-Proof Building, Carters, ITM, Plumbing World, Resene and Westpac.
